How AI Can Help Small Businesses Compete and Grow
Texas Border Business
By Scott Hall
Senior Director, Communications, U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Whether you’re a small business owner or someone considering starting your own venture, you’ve probably heard a lot about artificial intelligence(AI) and wondered how it fits into your daily operations. While it may seem like a tool reserved for tech savvy companies, AI is quickly becoming essential for small businesses and entrepreneurs who want to save time, grow smarter, and stay competitive.
That’s why the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, with support from Google, are launching Small Business B(AI)sics—a national training initiative aimed at empowering 40,000 small businesses over the next three years to harness the potential of artificial intelligence.
With funding from Google.org’s AI Opportunity Fund, Small Business B(AI)sics aims to equip entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to leverage AI to grow their businesses and strengthen local economies. The support from Google is part of a series of investments the company announced for small businesses under the AI Works initiative to help advance AI education.
Small Business B(AI)sics At a Glance:
Local, in-person training through the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s network of more than 1,500 state and local partners, so business owners can get support right in their own communities.
A digital AI learning hub on the Chamber’s small business platform, CO—, with easy-to-follow training modules, live and on-demand webinars, certification opportunities, and practical guides.
A nationwide awareness and recruitment campaign that highlights real small business success stories and helps entrepreneurs across Main Street America learn how to get started and see what’s possible with AI.
The program offers training, both in person and online, where business owners can connect directly with experts. These sessions are designed to deliver useful insights that entrepreneurs can apply right away to save time, grow revenue, and reach new customers.
Why This Matters for Small Businesses
Small businesses are the heart of America’s economy and the backbone of strong communities. They create two-thirds of new jobs and employ nearly half of the private workforce. More and more, these businesses are turning to technology to help them run more efficiently, connect with customers, and stay competitive.
According to the U.S. Chamber’sEmpowering Small Business Technology Report, the adoption of AI among small businesses continues to rise. The use of AI by small businesses increased by 18% compared to 2024 and has more than doubled since 2023. Those already exploring AI say it helps them:
Level the playing field by providing access to the same data-driven insights and efficiencies once limited to larger competitors.
Save time and resources by automating repetitive tasks like payroll, scheduling, and customer follow-ups.
Unlock growth opportunities through smarter marketing, improved customer service, and more efficient supply chain management.
At the same time, many small businesses, particularly those in rural communities or led by first-time entrepreneurs, feel uncertain about how to get started. Training, trusted information, and tailored support can make the difference between hesitating at the starting line and running ahead with confidence.
Building Confidence and Competitiveness
By 2028, the U.S. Chamber, U.S. Chamber Foundation, and Google expect to reach tens of thousands of business owners nationwide, equipping them with both the skills and confidence to make AI work for them.
“Small businesses are the engine of our communities and economy, and more than half of small business leaders say AI tools are critical to their businesses’ success,” said Karan Bhatia, Google’s VP of Government Affairs & Public Policy. “Through this new collaboration, we’re making sure every Main Street entrepreneur has access to the critical AI tools and training they need to grow.”
“For more than a century, the Chamber has helped businesses adapt to change,” said U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Suzanne P. Clark. “Together with Google and the U.S. Chamber Foundation, we are helping Main Street entrepreneurs embrace cutting-edge technology to make their companies stronger, more resilient, and more competitive.”
This partnership is about more than just technology—it’s about ensuring small businesses of every size and from every community have the chance to thrive in a changing world.
Whether it’s a Main Street shop owner learning to use AI-driven marketing or a family-run manufacturer streamlining operations, the U.S. Chamber, U.S. Chamber Foundation, and Google are working together to open new doors of opportunity.
How to Get Started
Small business owners can visit the U.S. Chamber’s digital platform, CO—,to access upcoming events, sign-up for interactive AI training modules, and on-demand resources.
Local chambers of commerce can contact sstreete@uschamber.com to host an in-person training for small businesses in their communities.
Sign up today at uschamber.com/co and start discovering how AI can help your business grow smarter, faster, and stronger.
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